Farm Progress

Understanding the potential ‘load’ of soil pathogens ahead of the new crop year can help you build a strategy to boost crop yields.

Willie Vogt

February 24, 2023

39 Min Listen

DNA is a secret weapon farmers can use to better understand the challenges your crop may face in the new year, but how does that work. One company, Pattern Ag, is focusing on measuring DNA information from soil samples to help farmers better understand the pests and diseases that may be present in the soil. This information can help farmers decide the best approach for inputs and crop protection products to use.

Mike Tweedy, vice president of sales; and Danielle Watts, vice president of data science, both with Pattern Ag, discuss the process they’ve created. They delve into the value of using DNA information combined with field data to help farmers boost yields. During their discussion they share examples of how this tool is making a difference, and they offer a sneak peek into other types of DNA they’re working on expanding as they go forward. And as they characterize DNA it illuminates past data in new ways.

The company has also produced a Predictive Ag Report for 2023, which you can download for free at pattern.ag. It aims to share pest loads farmers may be facing in different regions of the country. Listen to this week’s episode of Around Farm Progress to learn more.

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About the Author(s)

Willie Vogt

Willie Vogt has been covering agricultural technology for more than 40 years, with most of that time as editorial director for Farm Progress. He is passionate about helping farmers better understand how technology can help them succeed, when appropriately applied.

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